Board seeks clearer notification for donated school facilities after beach volleyball project

Board members said they would have liked prior notice of a donor‑funded beach volleyball court and directed staff to clarify policy language governing new additions to school property.

Mr. Johnson told the board the volleyball court project was widely supported and raised by the school, but that the total project value exceeded $50,000 once an in‑kind construction donation was included. He said the board should be informed of “brand‑new utilization of land” and new facilities even when funded by donors.

The superintendent and staff pointed to current policy language that requires board approval when the use of a facility changes. Staff said the volleyball court had been processed administratively under the $50,000 threshold initially, with the in‑kind donation later increasing the project total. Staff committed to bringing a policy clarification to the board and to present future comparable projects at a workshop or in a board forum so trustees can acknowledge donors and be kept informed.

Board members raised ancillary concerns about temporary removal of batting cages during the project and asked staff to confirm whether any Title IX issues had occurred; staff said the batting cages were a temporary situation and would be reestablished and that coaches do not have authority to deny other staff use of facilities without principal approval. No policy change was adopted on May 6; staff will return with recommended language.